Anyone who has travelled with a labradoodle knows that although they add a little more work to a vacation, they bring immense joy to experience a fun location with family! Here are some tips to make car trips just a little easier!
1. Make sure your pup is comfortable in her carrier. Allow some space for her to stand, sit, and turn around but not too big that she is tossed around on sharp turns. It helps too if your dog is already used to the carrier before the travel date.
2. Feed your pup a light meal a few hours before you go so he doesn’t get sick. Also don’t try to feed your dog while the car is in motion; let him out on breaks to drink water and eat during meal times.
3. While at a pit stop, make sure that your dog isn’t left in the car alone, even with unrolled windows if it’s hot. Have someone with the dog at all times.
4. On the highway? Don’t let your dog ride with her head out the window. Flying objects can potentially injure her.
5. How to pack for your pup? Include an appropriate amount of food, water, bowls, paper towels, something for poop clean-up, leash, collar, and a favorite toy for familiarity.
6. Bringing your own water or buying bottled water for the dog is safest. Don’t trust a water spout outside of a gas station!
7. Remember to stop for breaks! Even though you might be able to go for longer, your little guy might not. It’s better to play it safe than have a messy accident to clean up!
8. When you need to stop… think creatively! Never let puppy go to the bathroom at a rest stop or a frequently used grassy patch as you never know what germs are lurking. Think of nicer restaurants (Chili’s, Red Lobster, Abuellos, etc) or an Eye Doctor’s office. Always remember to pick up your poo but choose a place that most puppies would not visit..
And lastly…enjoy yourselves! Have a puppy to ride with may be a little more work but it’s worth your time spent with your labradoodle!